Spotlight on...

My favourite genre of books is children’s literature. I can now admit that proudly. There was a time in my life when I was a closet reader of children’s literature, but now I ask those who judge, how can you?! Beautiful artwork with poetically written lines – what a pair! There are so many authors and illustrators I love. They need to be shared…one at a time.

My first spotlight author, Paulette Bourgeois!

Author of the Franklin book series and a Canadian.  The book of hers that I like best is Big Sarah’s Little Boots. Sarah has a favourite pair of rain boots. When those boots no longer fit her feet she attempts many creative ways to make the boots stretch and grow. Her loving mother measures her to show that she has grown and it is time for new boots. Sarah does not like the idea of getting new boots, but eventually learns that there are some things she likes about the new boots. This book is an example of accepting change and finding the good in that change. Bourgeois’ writing voice breathes life into this believable, childhood story.

Of course, the first spotlight illustrator is Brenda Clark.

She has illustrated this book as well as the classic Franklin books. I really like her attention to detail and the way she includes real life objects in her pictures. For example, the trike she rides reminds me of one my family had growing up. Most of all, I think Brenda Clark does a fantastic job of capturing facial expressions. Look at this face!

Be sure to check out the Franklin book series, too. We will see more of Paulette Bourgeois in the fall when we do our Canadian Hall of Fame unit.